25 years of the 'Red Ribbon Project'

Today is World AIDS Day. Since 1988, December 1st has been observing as World AIDS Day. It is seen as an opportunity for the global citizens to unite, educate and aware in the fight against AIDS/HIV. 'Red Ribbon' has been using as a notation or symbol related to AIDS. In 1991 Red Ribbon Project was created by NewYork based Visual Aids Artists with the prime purpose of creating consciousness as well compassion among the people who have been tested positive for AIDS and their beloved ones looking after them. The image/logo was made copyrights free. 2016 marks the Silver jubilee year for the project. This Project is said to be inspired by the concept of yellow coloured ribbons which were used to pay homage and respect to the soldiers who fought in Gulf War. AIDS affected people suffer both psychologically as well as physiologically. Still today medical research continues to find the optimal treatment. HIV positive people tend to depress and avoid mingling others due to the stigma attached to AIDS. NGOs, Medical associations, Govts have been taking various awareness programmes to instil hope and confidence among the victims. Designers selected red colour because it represents love and compassion, and which was associated with blood. The loop shape was chosen due to its simplicity. Anyone can make a loop from a small piece of red colour ribbon and pinning it on themselves. Jeremy Irons, famous English actor is known to wore the Red ribbon for the 1st time in public domain, while hosting the prestigious Tony Awards which were held in 1991.